Habitat and Ecology
 
​Bulbophyllum pectinatum is a rhizomatous epiphytic or lithophytic orchid native to Southeast Asia, with a distribution spanning Assam, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and Southern China (Yunnan), extending to Taiwan. It is found growing on trees or shaded, humid rocks in forests and along valleys, typically at elevations between 1,100 and 2,600 metres. This species is a cool-to-intermediate grower, adapted to the subtropical montane climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, but requiring high ambient humidity year-round.
 
​Description
 
​This orchid is a small, sympodial perennial that forms small, ovoid to almost globose pseudobulbs (up to 2.5 cm long) spaced along a creeping rhizome. Each pseudobulb bears a single, leathery, elliptic leaf. The inflorescence is a slender, erect or spreading spike (6-10 cm long) that emerges basally and carries 6 to 12 small flowers in a dense terminal cluster (umbel), typically blooming in spring and summer.
 
​The flowers are its striking feature: they are approximately 1.5-2.5 cm wide, resupinate (upside down), and open widely. The sepals and petals are usually pale greenish-yellow and often marked with fine reddish-purple spots or stripes along the veins. The species name pectinatum (meaning 'comb-like') refers to the fringed or comb-like edges of the small lateral petals or the highly papillose (bumpy) keels on the lip. The lip is mobile, typical of Bulbophyllum, and the flowers are fragrant in some clones.
 
​Cultivation
 
​Bulbophyllum pectinatum is an intermediate-to-cool growing orchid that needs consistent moisture and good light. It is best accommodated in a shallow pot, wide basket, or mounted on cork bark to suit its spreading rhizome. It requires bright, filtered light; avoid harsh, direct midday sun. Use an open, moisture-retentive, yet fast-draining epiphytic mix (bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite). The medium should be kept consistently moist during active growth (spring to autumn), allowing the surface to dry slightly between waterings, but should not dry out completely.
 
​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 21-27 C (70-81F)
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: A distinct cooling period is beneficial, ideally 14-18 C (57-64 F), especially in winter.
​High humidity (60-80%) and good air circulation are necessary. Water frequently with tepid, soft water. Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced, dilute liquid orchid feed.
 
​Unique Features
​This orchid is highly decorative, prized for its spreading, creeping habit and the fan-like clusters of its uniquely patterned flowers. The finely spotted, pale yellow flowers with their distinct comb-like/fringed petals (referencing its name) and the glossy foliage make it a delightful, easily identifiable species for the intermediate-level collector.
 
​Specifications
​Plant Size: As seen in the pictures
​Plant Family: Orchidaceae
​Plant Passport: A Bulbophyllum pectinatum B 140084 C [buyer to use number of the plant label] D GB